Traffic cameras keep our roads safe

My father worked as a bridge inspector and land surveyor for the Iowa Department of Transportation and old Highway Commission for more than 40 years. I remember standing on the Interstate 380, 5-in-1 bridge deck with him while it was under construction when I was in high school in 1975. He marveled at the architecture, but wondered at the time how traffic would negotiate the s-curve through town at 70-75 mph, especially in the winter. Well, hundreds if not thousands did not drive through Cedar Rapids safely, leaving countless injuries, fatalities and million of dollars in property damage to trucks and cars. Something had to be done to slow the traffic down.

Speeds were reduced in the city, but not many heeded the new laws - at least not until speed cameras were installed. I have driven in this city for more than 40 years and I have never felt safer on I-380. Drivers are distracted more than ever and any camera that keeps me safer along with my wife and 10-year-old son, I am all for it. Those who obey the speed limits - and even if you are 10 mph over it - do not receive a ticket. Cameras are dramatically reducing accidents and fatalities.

The motoring public has adjusted accordingly thanks to the implementation of this safety feature. The cameras save lives, reduce injuries and property damage. They also reduce overall health care and insurance costs in the state and country. The pros of the cameras far exceed the cons.

Wade Wagner

Cedar Rapids